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Two years ago, when Courtney Cotrupe, already the mother of a one-year-old was on track to be named managing director of Partners + Napier, she found out baby No. 2 was on the way. She wanted to take another 90-day maternity leave although it wasn’t the best time to be assuming a big new job.

Fortunately, she was working for Sharon Napier, a woman who faced similar circumstances 25 years ago, during a far less enlightened time. “Sharon hugged me when she learned the news. Being gone for three months would be difficult, but since family is a core value at the agency, I knew the team would all pitch in. I also knew I could count on my husband supporting me 100 percent.

I continue to foster a work environment that is equally challenging and rewarding where people can simultaneously raise a family. It truly does take a village to raise a child and parenting is definitely a team sport,” said Cotrupe.

Giving back and focusing on family has been a lifelong endeavor for Cotrupe. Upon entering the offices of the full-service ad agency, visitors immediately notice a sign listing the firm’s core values: courage, ingenuity, family. She fully embraces those values in all areas of her life. “As the sign says, we are a firm that drives positive change for our clients, our people and our world. I love working for a company that believes in the same things as I do. I cannot imagine working anywhere else,” she remarked.

Growing up in Rochester, Cotrupe always enjoyed the energy inherent in urban environments. Wanting to go to college in a big city, she landed at Boston University, graduating in 1999 with a bachelor of arts in communications. Post college, the Big Apple beckoned and she spent several years in the advertising field before returning to Rochester to be with family when her father Gordon Gray, Jr. became ill.

Although she was out of the advertising world for a short time, a serendipitous meeting with Sharon Napier, CEO of Partners + Napier, led her back to the industry. She began as a senior account executive at the agency and has steadily risen through the ranks during the last decade to her current position as managing director where she oversees approximately 125 team members.

Cotrupe is especially excited about the work the agency does to foster community impact. “It’s so important to give back to the place we call home,” she said. One of the projects Cotrupe is proudest of is “Every Minute Matters,” a pro-bono program to combat chronic absenteeism among children in grades K-3, developed with Causewave Community Partners where she serves on the board of directors. According to recent data detailing a 21 percent decline in absenteeism, their efforts have been very effective.

Todd Butler, President + CEO, Causewave Community Partners works very closely with Cotrupe and says that her view of family goes way beyond its traditional meaning. “Whether she’s raising funds for Brighton softball in honor of her late father by hosting the Gordon W. Gray, Jr. Annual Softball Fundraiser (with proceeds funding athletic scholarships, batting cages and scoreboards for the girls’ program — ensuring it continues Gordon’s vision for the program) or her work with Causewave Community Partners, Courtney opens her heart to her Rochester community and colleagues with the same respect and care as she gives her own family.”

Sandy Sloane is a Rochester-area freelance writer.

Personal: 39, married, 2 children, lives in Rochester.

My future goals: I strive to keep current regarding industry conversations about supporting family in the workplace and at home. As the definition and dynamics of “family” evolves, I want to ensure the agency stays ahead of it with benefits, flex time and/or paternity leave.

I’m inspired by: My parents are my greatest role models. They taught me the importance of communication in building trust and relationships both within a family and at work.

Career advice for someone just starting out: Master the art of relationships. Be a sponge, be curious and say “yes” to everything you can. Never be afraid to ask a question. Know the importance of a solid handshake: It is your word. (My dad taught me that.)

Favorite inspiring quote: “Life doesn’t get easier or more forgiving, we get stronger and more resilient.” — Steve Maraboli

To nominate

Woman to Watch features outstanding young women who are community servants and rising stars in the Rochester area. We also feature women from our On the Move database.